Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners light and fresh air and increase a home's value. In time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners better communicate with a contractor about the problems they encounter. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems with patio doors:
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's sometimes difficult to open a sliding patio door. Most of these sluggish sliding patio doors can be repaired easily with some cleaning and oiling, unless a structural problem is present. The most common culprit is dirt in the lower track, which may cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to misalign. In this instance clean the track thoroughly before applying a thin layer of lubricant so that the rollers can glide smoothly.
In addition, misalignment can be caused because of wear or damage in the hinges that join the door panels, which house some of the rollers, springs either torsion or extension and cables that raise the door. When these components are damaged or worn out, could alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance, as well as other issues, such as a heavier feeling door or increased energy consumption. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these components are in good working order to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
To verify the alignment between rollers, set up the crow's feet at the one end of the track. Then employ a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, observing the distance each travels. Repeat the process at the other end of the track and divide by two to determine the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tape to measure the diameter directly. It is however, faster and easier than using a carpenter's or level to measure the length of each rail.
Another option for checking the alignment of the rollers is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame, which stops the rollers. If the door is heavy you may require assistance in removing removable grilles and shades. After removing the head stop remove the head track adjustments screws by securing them with a screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly, align each screw for adjustment to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with a hammer.
Tracks that are dirty or damaged
Patio doors that slide can act as magnets for debris, dirt and other elements from outside. They are also susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that may require professional repairs. To prolong the lifespan of your patio door finding and fixing these issues promptly is crucial.
Dirty tracks are among the most frequent causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors. Over time, dirt and other debris, such as food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris, could get trapped in the narrow spaces between your sliding door tracks which can cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum your tracks of your patio doors every month at a minimum to avoid these problems. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or warm soapy tap water after you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you find that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to scrub these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you should be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid your sliding door from sticking or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest adding silicone spray to your bottom track regularly. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to enhance the glide.
A draft or a leak of air can also impact your sliding patio doors. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or damaged. This can cause an opening between the door and frame that allows air to be able to enter and decrease energy efficiency. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it when needed.
If you use it regularly, your patio door will show normal wear and wear and tear over time. These issues are not usually indicative of a major issue. Small repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door. Consult a professional for any issues as soon they appear to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A cracked or warped patio door can be a major visual ailment and a potential security risk. It can also let in unwanted creatures and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. These problems are easy to fix when discovered early.
A quick glance at the glass can assist you in determining what kind of repairs are required. Generally, cracks in the glass are the result of stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will probably have to re-lead the panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. To help match the new glass to the original, professionals require accurate documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill a crack. It can be purchased at hardware stores or the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will typically use an iron soldering to melt the plastic then apply it to the cracks in the glass. Once the plastic has cooled down, the professional can remove any excess.
If the crack isn't too large it is possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of sealant at any hardware store. It is crucial to dry the crack thoroughly prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or another fan.
Weatherstripping that is damaged
A weather stripping that's worn-out not only looks ugly and can pose a security risk, but also allows outside air and heat out. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping inside your home.
Make sure patio doors repairs have the proper tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, utility knife, as well as gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping, by cutting through the end piece and pulling it up using any screws that are attached, if applicable. Then, gently take any remaining pieces over using pliers or a pry bar.
Begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the size of weather stripping you need. Be sure to leave an extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you've found the perfect size you can apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish, nail it in place using the nail or hammer.
Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Let the filler completely dry before painting. It's best to use oil-based paint, however, latex can also be used.
Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. This will prevent future problems like sticking. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they stay functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. If you do this, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home renovation projects!